Victrix Pro BFG: The Ultimate Controller for Tekken 8 Dominance

This extensive review covers a month's experience with the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition controller across PC, PS5, PS4, and Steam Deck. The reviewer, a TouchArcade contributor, explores its modular design and performance against other "Pro" controllers.

Unboxing the Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition

Unlike standard controllers, this package includes the controller itself, a braided cable, a high-quality protective case, a six-button fightpad module, two gates, extra analog stick and D-pad caps, a screwdriver, and a blue wireless USB dongle. The accessories are Tekken 8 themed, currently unavailable as replacements, a point of concern for the reviewer.

Compatibility Across Platforms

The controller boasts PS5, PS4, and PC compatibility. The reviewer successfully used it on Steam Deck (via dongle) without any issues, appreciating the PlayStation button prompts. Wireless functionality on PS4 and PS5 also worked flawlessly, highlighting its usefulness for cross-generation testing.

Features and Functionality

The modularity is a key selling point, allowing for customizable layouts (symmetric, asymmetric, and fightpad). Adjustable triggers, thumbsticks, and D-pads cater to diverse gaming needs. The reviewer praises the trigger stop adjustment and D-pad options, although preferring the default diamond shape.

However, the lack of rumble, haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro/motion control is a significant drawback, especially considering the price point and the availability of more affordable controllers with rumble. The reviewer notes that this limitation might be due to restrictions on third-party PS5 controllers.

The four paddle-like buttons prove useful, although the reviewer wishes for removable, true paddles. They were mapped to L3, R3, L1, and R1 for enhanced gameplay in titles like Monster Hunter World.

Design and Ergonomics

The vibrant, Tekken 8-themed design is visually appealing, though less subtle than the standard model. The controller is comfortable, but feels slightly lightweight. The grip is excellent, allowing for extended play sessions without fatigue.

PS5 Performance

While officially licensed, the controller can't power on the PS5, a common limitation for third-party controllers. Haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and gyro remain absent. Touchpad and share button functionalities are fully supported.

Steam Deck Experience

Out-of-the-box functionality on Steam Deck is a major plus. The controller is recognized correctly, with the share button and touchpad working as expected, surpassing the DualSense in some game compatibility aspects.

Battery Life

Superior battery life compared to the DualSense and DualSense Edge is a considerable advantage, further enhanced by a low-battery indicator on the touchpad.

Software and iOS Compatibility

Software testing was limited due to the reviewer's non-Windows setup. Unfortunately, iOS compatibility proved unsuccessful, despite testing various wired and wireless configurations.

Shortcomings

Key drawbacks include the absence of rumble, a low polling rate, the lack of Hall Effect sensors (sold separately), and the dongle requirement for wireless operation. The reviewer expresses disappointment regarding the absence of Hall Effect sensors in the initial purchase, and the incompatibility of separately purchased modules with the controller's aesthetic.

Final Verdict

After extensive use, the reviewer concludes that the controller is excellent but not perfect. Its potential is high, but issues like the lack of rumble (potentially a Sony restriction), dongle necessity, extra cost for Hall Effect sticks, and the low polling rate prevent it from achieving peak performance, especially considering its price. The score is 4/5.

Victrix Pro BFG Tekken 8 Rage Art Edition Review Score: 4/5